Assassin’s Creed: Revelations

(Ubisoft for Xbox 360)
By Mike Delano

It makes sense that Assassin’s Creed titles usually release around Thanksgiving: This really is buffet-style gaming in the best way possible. Building on the successes of the last two games in the series, Assassin’s Creed: Revelations puts you in the shoes of master assassin Ezio Auditore again as he explores in the intrigue of Constantinople as an older, wiser killing machine. Since this is supposed to be his final adventure, there’s a somber tone that permeates much of the game as well as a push by the creators to reflect on the series thus far, as they bring original protagonist Altair back into the fold for some missions throughout the main story. Not content to simply look back, though, Ubisoft also branches out to incredible lengths in Revelations. Not only does Ezio get a whole new beautiful city to explore, but modern-day hero Desmond gets a handful of fascinating Mirrors Edge-style first-person head trips. There are still a host of side missions to complete, and even a new tower defense game starring Ezio is thrown into the mix (although it’s definitely the weakest amongst the new additions). Of course, all of this is on top of an excellent and deep online multiplayer mode that expands on and refines its strengths as introduced in Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood. It’s a big feast of a game that earns its lofty subtitle.
(www.ubisoft.com)